Fireworks Safety for nyc pet parents

New Yorkers come to expect a certain amount of neighborhood fireworks this time of year, and many of our pets are not fans of the commotion.

There is a very good reason why July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month - more animals go missing around July 4th than at any other time during the year.

While illegal neighborhood firework displays are often merely an inconvenient annoyance to us, they can cause a lot of stress and discomfort for our fur-babies. Dogs and cats don’t understand where the loud noises are coming from and their instinctual response is to flee.

We don’t want our dogs, cats or other small pets to be cowering, scared, and anxious; so how can we help comfort our beloved pals and keep them safe? The first, and most important precaution is to tag and microchip your pets. Make sure they have their ID tags on at all times so that if they do escape, they can be easily identified by neighbors and local authorities.

Secondly, keep your animals as far away from fireworks as possible. Do not bring them to local displays or parties where there could be any type of loud sound makers, even sparklers. Make sure you leave your pets at home, in a safe spot where they are secure and comfortable. Try to walk your dog earlier in the day to avoid the evening excitement, and if you do have to take her out for a walk amidst the noise, be sure that all her walking gear is snug and that you double leash to both a harness and collar.

If you have done all of the above and your pets are still dealing with the stress and anxiety some of the following could help…

APPAREL

• One option to soothe your pet is physical gear like a thundershirt or calming coat, both of which are designed to essentially swaddle the animal (without affecting mobility) and apply gentle, constant, calming pressure, much like an extended hug. 

• Another wearable option is something like the Happy Hoodie, which operates similarly to thundershirts but is worn only on your pet’s head and offers the added benefit of acting as earmuffs to help block sound.

TREATS

• All natural ingestibles like PetHonesty calming hemp chews, Premium Care calming chews, and Bach’s rescue remedy tincture are all highly rated and well reviewed and can be used alone or in addition to a wearable anti-anxiety device. 

TECHNOLOGY

• Some white noise or soothing music (we like Zen Dog and Canine Lullabies) may help minimize the adverse effects of fireworks. Giving your pup a calming, neutral base sound to listen to can help drown out or neutralize the decibel spikes caused by fireworks. 

• Consider something like DogTV which, among it’s offerings, are programs with sights and sounds specifically geared towards helping pups relax.

Our feline friends are also often not fans of fireworks and loud noises. Many of the tricks above also help calm cats, however cats can also be more sensitive to the bright flashes of fireworks, so consider covering your windows if fireworks are visible. It’s also important to create a safe, comfortable space for a cat to hide and to ensure your apartment is escape-proof.

If a combination of the above still doesn’t do the trick consider talking to your vet about a mild anti-anxiety medication to help your animal get through the worst of the fireworks.

If you’re still at the end of your rope or feel you can’t give your pup the attention they need during these firework-filled nights, reach out to us! Perfect Pooch is happy to board an ultra anxious animal and can provide all the snuggles, soothing, and attention your anxious fur-baby may need.

Stay safe and have a wonderful summer, friends! We look forward to seeing you and your furry friends soon.